Lap-Band, also known as adjustable gastric banding, is a type of weight-loss surgery in which a flexible silicone band is placed around the upper portion of your stomach. Though having a Lap-Band may help you lose weight by making you feel fuller from smaller amounts of food, you will have to make significant dietary and lifestyle changes to ensure your success with the band.
Immediately Following Surgery
Immediately after surgery you will be restricted to a liquid diet. You will be able to drink water and clear liquids, including skim milk and fruit juice. Clear broth or soup is also allowed, but do not consume any soups containing vegetables, meat or cream. The University of California San Diego Medical Center, cautions against drinking too much, as this could cause nausea and vomiting, which may stretch the small stomach pouch above the band.
Dietary Progression
The liquid diet may last as long as two weeks after surgery. During weeks three and four, you will be able to add some soft pureed foods to your diet. Choose foods with the consistency of baby foods. The Lap-Band AP System website recommends consuming proteins first to avoid muscle wasting during your recovery period. If you are still hungry after eating your proteins, you may also eat some pureed fruits and vegetables. Examples of foods you may be allowed to eat during this period include mashed potatoes, yogurt, pudding, and skinless chicken or fish. After five weeks, you can progress to soft foods, and after six weeks, many patients are able to tolerate small amounts of solid foods. If any stage in your dietary progression causes nausea or vomiting, return to the previous stage.
Recommended Foods
Once you are tolerating solid foods, you will need to choose foods high in protein and other nutrients. According to New Hope Bariatrics, protein is considered the most important nutrient following Lap-Band surgery. Protein deficiency can cause hair loss or loss of hair color, muscle wasting, fluid retention and immune deficiencies. Continue to choose lean proteins such as chicken and fish; if you have difficulty getting enough protein through whole foods, you may wish to replace some meals with protein shakes. Other recommended foods for Lap-Band patients include fruits and vegetables, healthy grains, non-fat or low-fat dairy products and heart-healthy fats.
Foods to Avoid
Some foods may be difficult for you to digest following Lap-Band surgery, notes the UCSD Medical Center. These foods may include dried fruit, asparagus, corn and popcorn, grapes, some nuts and seeds, carbonated beverages, pineapple and high-calorie foods and drinks. You may want to keep a food journal to determine which foods create adverse effects for you.
Eating Habits
In addition to the types of food you eat, you may also have to make some adjustments to the way you are used to eating. Eat three small meals a day and avoid snacking between meals. Eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly so that it will pass through your band more easily. Avoid drinking for 30 to 45 minutes before and after meals, as liquids will make foods pass through your pouch and may keep you from feeling full.
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